Using near-infrared wavelength laser pulses of 100–150 fs duration and 1 kHz repetition rate, we demonstrated precise laser ablation of healthy human dental enamel in vitro. We used embedded miniature thermocouples to measure the temperature in the pulpal cavity during irradiation, and showed that with air cooling the temperature rise in isolated teeth was maintained below 5 degrees C. Scanning electron and optical microscopy confirmed the excellent surface preparation of the laser-treated teeth.